VITAMIN C (ASCORBIC ACID)

Since vitamin C is a water-soluble micronutrient and cannot be stored in
your body, it should be included in your diet every day. It helps your adrenal
gland regulate your levels of stress hormones. Under stress, you use up even
more, so you need to increase your intake during those times. Ascorbic acid
helps your body absorb the mineral iron. It also helps
contribute to the health of your teeth and gums.

The vitamin aids your body in producing the protein collagen, which gives
structure to your muscles, the tissues of your blood-vessel system, your bones
and cartilage, your teeth and gums. Vitamin C can also help lower blood
cholesterol. Lowers risk of cardiovascular
disease by increasing HDL cholesterol. Possible crucial role for C in mental
functioning and behavior. Can prevent buildup of heavy metals like lead,
mercury, and aluminum that lead to mental retardation and Alzheimer's disease.

Along with vitamins A and
E, C is a potent antioxidant,
chemically neutralizing oxidation products ("free radicals") before
they can damage delicate cell DNA and membranes. As such, it has clear
anticancer properties. It also seems to help neutralize many carcinogens before
they damage body tissues.

Of all the vitamins, C has the most potent good effects on your immune
system, increasing the weight of essential immune tissues like the thymus and
lymph nodes. It also energizes your white blood cells that fight infection, and
helps your body manufacture a chemical that promotes antibody production. C
protects two other vitamins, A and
E, from breakdown.